Abu dhabi: Humaid Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC Group, announced that the upcoming 5th edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026 will be the largest in the event's history, covering over 88,000 square meters. This marks a 30% increase in size compared to the previous year. The event will feature 1,245 exhibitors, representing a 73% increase from 2025, and will include participants from all seven emirates.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Dhaheri stated that ADNEC Group, a Modon company, is preparing to organise Make it in the Emirates 2026 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi from May 4 to May 7, 2026. The event is hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, ADNOC, and L'imad Holding Company.
The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi offers advanced infrastructure that meets the highest global standards, ensuring an exceptional experience for exhibitors and visitors. This reflects the UAE's commitment to maintaining its reputation as a leader in hosting and organising world-class events on both regional and international levels. ADNEC Group, through its six business clusters, provides comprehensive services led by Emirati talents who collaborate closely with public and private sector partners to deliver a seamless experience for all participants.
The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is the largest event venue in the Middle East, offering versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, including 12 interconnected halls and the temporary Hall 13, which will support small and medium-sized enterprises. The venue is supported by several onsite and nearby hotels, catering to both local and international delegations, and offers a wide range of retail and hospitality options to accommodate exhibitors and visitors.
Al Dhaheri also highlighted that ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is equipped to host major events, backed by highly experienced human resources and advanced infrastructure. It has achieved notable milestones, including the ISO 20121:2012 certification for sustainable event management. Furthermore, all events at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi are powered entirely by clean energy sources, reflecting ADNEC Group's commitment to sustainability in the events industry.
ADNEC Group is fully prepared for the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates and will deliver the event to the highest possible standards. The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi continuously develops its infrastructure and facilities to enhance the experience of all exhibitors and visitors. Al Dhaheri mentioned that the centre offers advanced solutions for managing crowds and visitors, utilising artificial intelligence systems to ensure a seamless visitor experience.
ADNEC Group is dedicated to strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for business and leisure tourism by hosting and organising major international events. This supports sustainable growth in the tourism and business sectors by creating opportunities for global exhibitors, decision-makers, and visitors, while offering an integrated event ecosystem that includes a world-class venue, expert event management, hospitality services, media, and tourism.
The group has been a leader in innovation, sustainability, and service quality, setting new regional and global benchmarks for some of the world's largest events. The exhibitions and conferences sector plays a vital role in advancing the UAE's industrial development by promoting national products, opening new markets, and enhancing their competitiveness on regional and international levels.
Since its establishment, ADNEC Group has contributed to the UAE's economic growth by hosting high-profile events attended by millions of visitors. These industries contribute to increasing both direct and indirect contributions to the national economy, supporting thousands of jobs, and generating millions of hotel nights annually through the events hosted at its centres.
ADNEC Group leverages advanced digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency and visitor experiences. Through its partnership with Presight, the group has implemented an AI-powered platform, which analyses visitor traffic, monitors their experiences, and improves event management. The group has also adopted an Integrated Building Management System (IBMS) to ensure clean, energy-efficient operations and a smart parking system to enhance accessibility and convenience for visitors.
Al Dhaheri emphasised that AI-powered solutions enhance the interaction of visitors and exhibitors with the centre, ensuring a seamless and safe experience. The Make it in the Emirates is a key driver of industrial investment, growth, and resilience in the UAE. The previous edition facilitated agreements and procurement contracts worth AED11 billion, while also attracting significant investments into the national economy. The platform has been a major contributor to the National In-Country Value (ICV) programme since its inception, strengthening local supply chains and promoting UAE-made products.
"The 2026 edition has shown increased momentum, surpassing previous performance and operational benchmarks. This progress further boosts the UAE's industrial and economic growth, aligning with the nation's vision for sustainable development and global competitiveness," he concluded.